finance

Natural disasters are on the rise: Insurance is not longer a ‘nice to have’

What appears to have been a tornado swept through Montana in northern Pretoria recently, causing widespread damage to cars, buildings, the contents of these buildings, external geysers and more. Trees were uprooted, roofs were blown away, areas and roads were flooded, and many residents had to be evacuated. This extreme weather event is yet to […]

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how to keep our youth financially independent and out of debt

Financial literacy is an important life skill, yet it remains one of the most overlooked aspects of a young person’s education. South Africa’s youth, who make up more than one-third of the population, are stepping into adulthood in a financial landscape fraught with challenges. With youth unemployment at 45.5% and 62% of take-home pay going

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Updating your will: A crucial step in protecting your family’s future

Drawing up a will is one of the most important steps you can take to secure your family’s financial future and ensure your wishes are followed after your passing. But drafting a will is not a one-time event. Experts at Eksekuteurs vir Boedels en Testamente stress the importance of regularly reviewing and updating your will

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Healthcare financial planning resolutions for 2025

As we step into 2025, families are diligently re-evaluating household budgets, distinguishing the ‘must-haves’ from the ‘nice-to-haves’, and seeking smarter ways to manage essential expenses. One critical area under scrutiny is healthcare coverage, a universally acknowledged necessity – but at what cost, and what benefit level should it be maintained? Martin Rimmer, CEO of Sirago

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Is now the right time to buy property?

For many, owning a home is a lifelong dream, and property remains a tangible, often lucrative investment. However, before taking the plunge, it’s important to evaluate the factors that could influence your decision. Claude McKirby, co-principal of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty in Cape Town’s southern suburbs, highlights the key considerations for prospective property buyers

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Back-to-school blues: 95% of parents stressed, 88% financially strained

The 2nd annual Back-to-School survey conducted by 1Life Insurance has shed light on the significant challenges parents face during the back-to-school season, revealing a stressful and financially draining period for families across South Africa. The survey found that 95% of parents experience stress when preparing for the new school year, highlighting the emotional toll that

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Ways to teach your children to be money-savvy at each milestone

As schools reopen in South Africa, learners tend to miss one critical aspect of their education, which is the basics of financial literacy. This goes beyond knowing how to open a bank account; financial literacy involves understanding budgeting, debt, saving and long-term financial planning. Stian de Witt, executive head of Financial Planning at advisory firm

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Prepare for back-to-school costs

South African parents and guardians are grappling with the financial reality of preparing their children for the school year. With many family budgets already stretched, the added expenses can feel overwhelming. The costs for essentials like fees, uniforms, textbooks and stationery add up quickly. Additionally, families must account for sporting equipment, technology, transport, class outings

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A worker drilling into a solar panel

Why solar subscriptions may not be the best financial decision

Solar power has emerged as the top choice for homeowners looking to reduce their grid electricity costs in the face of massive multi-year tariff hikes, as well as escape the crippling impact of power outages as a result of crumbling municipal infrastructure. However, the method by which one opts to fund one’s solar purchase can

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A glass holiday savings jar

Top 5 tips for a financially sound festive season

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” as the festive jingle says – but the season also brings temptations to overspend. From enticing sales to ‘buy now, pay later’ offers, it’s easy to fall into financial traps and begin the new year with regret. CreditSmart Financial Services urges South Africans to make informed financial

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